The weekend that horseplayers and racing fans eagerly await all year has finally arrived. With the stunning San Gabriel Mountains in the background, 13 races worth almost $25 million will be contested, highlighted Friday by the $2 million Distaff and Saturday by the $5 million Classic.

As they have for the past several years, a variety of handicappers have stepped up to offer their thoughts on the races. Ed DeRosa from Brisnet; Michelle McSweeney from Hialeah Park; Seth Merrow from Equidaily and Capital OTB; Brian Nadeau from Horseplayer Now, Brooklyn Backstretch, and Capital OTB; and Gabby Gaudet from Arlington, Laurel, and Pimlico share their ideas on selections and wagering for Friday’s race; they’ll be back tomorrow with a look at the Saturday card.

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